An Israeli airstrike hit Al-Ahli Arab Hospital, the last fully functioning medical facility in Gaza City, on Sunday. The attack damaged the building, destroying the intensive care unit and surgery department.
Damage and Casualties
Online footage showed a large fire and thick smoke after the missile struck the two-story hospital building. Patients, some still in their beds, were quickly evacuated.
No additional casualties were reported directly from the strike. However, a child injured in a previous attack died during the rushed evacuation.
Israel’s Explanation
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed they targeted the hospital because it housed a Hamas command and control center. They said they took steps to minimize civilian harm, including issuing a warning.
A local journalist reported that IDF officials called the emergency department, warning staff to evacuate within 20 minutes.
International Reaction
Hamas media condemned the attack. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called it “appalling” and demanded it stop.
- Source: bbc